Oct 12
2016
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How to Backwash and Clean Your Pool Sand Filter
How to Backwash and Clean Your Pool Sand Filter
There are so many different ways you can keep a pool clean. From using a net to catch any leaves or bugs that fall into the pool to getting a dolphin pool cleaner to keep the pool clean. However, the most important way to clean your pool is called backwashing. Backwashing is an essential aspect in maintaining your pool clean and healthy, so it should always be a part of your pool cleaning routine. It is not a difficult process to undergo, and it guarantees you great results. Plus, having a pool sand filter allows for some of the easiest backwashing procedures. read more…
What a backwash does is, it clean your filters by using water itself. Reversing this flow of water implies discharging it to an area of your choice through a hose connected to the pump. That allows for some very effective dirt rinsing and organic materials removing, which only makes for a cleaner pool overall. Before proceeding to backwash, it is important to remember that it is best to perform this task before adding any swimming pool chemicals to the water.
When is backwashing necessary to do? You should go for it after every storm or situation that might cloud the water. You can also tell the necessity for backwashing if the pump gauge reads 8 to 10 ppi. Otherwise, this is a procedure that has to be part of your weekly pool maintenance.
Here are the steps you need to follow to get a great backwash and clean that sand filter:
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Shut down the system – nothing should ever be done, especially when pool equipment is involved, without you shutting the system off.
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Set the pump to backwash – turn the handle of pool pump on backwash position, lock it in place and then turn the pool pump back on. If there are no labels attached to the pump to indicate the backwash position, read the product documentation.
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Backwashing – with water flowing through the backwash hose, water should already appear clear by now. It should only take between 3 to 5 minutes to backwash the pool filter. If water flowing out seems to be dirty, don’t worry. It’s all the dirt and debris that are being removed from the filter. When the water inside the filter seems to be clear, it means backwashing is complete, and you should turn off the system.
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Rinse the filter – turn the handle to rinse and then turn the system back on. Rinsing the filter ensures that clean water is sent through the pipes to wash away any leftover residues and thoroughly clean it out. It also contributes at settling the silica sand onto the bottom of the filter so that it truly keeps its effectiveness. The entire rinsing process shouldn’t take more than 45 seconds.
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Filter – turn the handle on the pool filter position to filter the water properly. Turn the pool system back on.
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Refill and refresh – now, it is high time you refill the pool with some nice fresh water. We advise you to use the opportunity also to add any needed maintenance swimming pool chemicals.